Nathan Saliba held up the jersey of injured teammate Ismaël Koné after scoring Canada's fourth goal in the second half on Thursday. The emotional tribute came during a historic 6-0 victory over Qatar at BC Place in Vancouver, witnessed by 52,497 fans. It was Canada's first-ever win at a men's World Cup.
Dominant Performance Marred by Injury
Jesse Marsch's side put on a commanding display, with Jonathan David scoring a hat-trick. However, the triumph was overshadowed by a horrific leg injury to midfielder Ismaël Koné, who was stretchered off after a challenge from Qatar's Assim Madibo. Madibo received a red card after a VAR review, reducing Qatar to nine men.
The home crowd created a fervent atmosphere from the start, with a rousing rendition of O Canada. Canada pinned Qatar back in their own half for the first eight minutes, only briefly interrupted by a counter-attack from Akram Afif. The breakthrough came from a corner in the 30th minute, when Cyle Larin scored after a scramble in the box.
David's Hat-Trick Seals Victory
After the hydration break, Canada doubled their lead through Jonathan David, who volleyed home from a deflected shot. Qatar's woes deepened when Homam Ahmed was sent off for denying a goal-scoring opportunity. Just before halftime, David added his second goal from a header by Larin, making it 3-0.
In the second half, Canada continued to dominate. Koné's injury in the 51st minute brought a somber moment, but the crowd rallied with a standing ovation as he was carried off. Substitute Nathan Saliba scored a direct free kick in the 64th minute, pointing to the tunnel where Koné had exited. Jacob Shaffelburg added a fifth in the 75th minute, and David completed his hat-trick in stoppage time.
Historic Achievement
The victory marks a milestone for Canadian men's soccer, building on their progress in recent years. Defender Alphonso Davies was available but not risked due to his recent hamstring injury. The team now looks ahead to their next group stage matches.
